Prospect Talent Score

Probability of Success

History

Brouwer is the classic case of a late bloomer. Drafted by Chicago in the 7th round (214th overall) in the 2004 NHL Draft, his stock has literally skyrocketed in the ensuing seasons.

In 2003-2004 with Moose Jaw in the WHL, Brouwer registered a modest 23 goals and 26 assists, with 111 penalty minutes. In 2004-2005, he contributed 22 goals, 25 assists, with 132 penalty minutes. It was the following season, as an overage junior, when Brouwer really put himself on the radar of scouts and scribes alike, leading the WHL in scoring with 49 goals and 53 assists, while maintaining his rugged style of play with 122 penalty minutes.

The following off-season, Brouwer was signed by Chicago and appeared briefly with the Hawks during the 2006 exhibition season, playing with fellow CHL standout Dave Bolland. He was then assigned to Norfolk where he quickly regained his scoring touch. In an outstanding AHL rookie season, Brouwer scored 41 goals and 38 assists, with 70 penalty mnutes, earning strong consideration for AHL Rookie of the Year honors.
2007-08: Though Brouwer’s production fell off from his prior year in Norfolk, he established himself as one of Rockford’s top enforcers, as he amassed 154 penalty minutes in 75 regular season games. Brouwer also put his poor performance in the 2006-07 playoffs behind him by compiling nine points and 16 penalty minutes in 12 post-season games with the IceHogs. Overall, Brouwer proved to be a steadier producer during the 2007-08 season despite having a lower point total than the previous year.

Talent Analysis

Brouwer is a prototypical power forward with above average, natural hockey instincts. While his skating is only average, he possesses a hard, accurate shot with a lightning quick release. He sees the ice well and is exceptionally adept at both positioning in the offensive zone as well as creating space for linemates. One of the best aspects of his game is what he does without the puck. Brouwer plays with an aggressive edge and will both deliver punishing hits and drop the gloves when necessary. He is also a good passer, though playmaking is not his forte.

Future

Brouwer is the epitome of a power forward. In addition to his edgy play, Brouwer’s ability to put himself in opportunistic scoring situations gives him top-line potential.

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Photo: The Washington Capitals went the trade route in the 2011 NHL Draft, sending their first round pick to the Chicago Blackhawks for winger Troy Brouwer. (Mark Goldman/Icon SMI)

After nearly advancing to the Eastern Conference finals, the revitalized Washington Capitals now turn their attention to the off-season. After having just four picks in last year's draft, the club has stockpiled 11 picks for this June's draft, including the 11th overall pick, which they acquired from the Colorado Avalanche for Semyon Varlamov, and their own 16th overall pick.